While the United States maintains programs to attract foreign investments by offering visas to investors, the programs have been historically restricted to those who could afford to make substantial investments into the U.S. economy.
The EB-5 investor visa program, for example, requires investors to invest at least $500,000 to be considered qualified to receive the visa. Those who are not fortunate enough to be able to provide this amount as an investment into a U.S. based business venture will try to raise the funds by selling their property and / or asking friends and family for help in raising the capital.
Plus, if the investment fails, the investor may find him or herself out of the original investment funds and unable to remain in the United States, since an investment that fails to meet the expectations of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service, can cause an investor’s visa to be revoked, along with the right to remain in the country.
A New Option for Entrepreneurs Under Consideration
As Congress continues to pursue immigration reform, one of the changes that is expected to go into effect when reform is passed is being dubbed the Startup Act 3.0. This act would create an entrepreneur visa that would help entrepreneurs who want to come to the United States to build businesses despite the fact that they may not have the same access to funds as individuals who apply for investor visas.
At this point, there is no telling how long it will take for the entrepreneur visa to go into effect, or even if the proposed visa will make it into the final immigration reform bill. What is known is that, if an entrepreneur visa does got into effect, it has to potential to add over 1.5 million jobs to America’s economy.
If Startup Act 3.0 Goes Into Effect
Assuming that Startup Act 3.0 goes into effect, anyone who is considering applying for a visa under the program should consider getting the help of an experienced immigration attorney for assistance with the application process. The attorney will help the prospective applicant determine whether or not he or she qualifies for the visa and, if so, can help the applicant compile the paperwork and evidence that will be needed by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service to approve an application if all other qualifications are met.
This advice extends to anyone who may need help with an immigration or visa related issue. An experienced immigration attorney will have the knowledge and professional resources available to help individuals with any kind of immigration issue they may require assistance with. If a visa or green card has already been issued, then an immigration attorney can even help foreign citizens in the United States defend against removal orders – also known as deportation orders.
The assistance that an immigration attorney can provide can be invaluable, particularly when a person is fighting to get to or remain in the country. Statistically, a person represented by competent legal counsel has a much higher chance of a favorable legal outcome than a person who self represents through the immigration system.
